Staten Island Wrongful Death Lawyers

Compassionate Attorneys for Families in Richmond County & Kings County

Losing someone you love is one of life’s most challenging experiences. When that loss occurs due to another person’s negligence, grief is often compounded by anger and a sense of injustice. In the wake of tragedies like these, families not only endure emotional pain but also face practical challenges such as the sudden loss of income, mounting medical bills, and funeral expenses.

The Chernyy Law Office, P.C. supports families throughout Staten Island and New York City who are coping with the consequences of a fatal accident. While no amount of compensation can replace the person you lost, financial recovery can help restore stability and hold those responsible accountable. 

Understanding Wrongful Death Claims

A wrongful death happens when a life is lost because of another person's carelessness, reckless behavior, or intentional harm. These tragedies can stem from various situations, including car and truck collisions, medical errors, or defective products. When these avoidable actions lead to a loss of life, New York law provides a way for the family to seek justice.

A wrongful death claim is a civil matter and is handled separately from any criminal charges. Even if the person responsible is facing a trial in criminal court, your family can still move forward with a civil claim on your own. 

The standard for winning a civil case is different than in a criminal one; you only need to show that it is more likely than not that the other party was responsible. Because of this, many families can hold someone accountable in a civil claim even if a criminal case does not result in a conviction.

New York law has specific rules governing who can initiate a wrongful death lawsuit. Typically, a personal representative is appointed to manage the deceased person's estate and file the claim on behalf of the family. Those who usually receive compensation include spouses, children, and, in some cases, parents and siblings. These family members have a right to seek recovery for the many ways the loss has impacted their lives.

Types of Wrongful Death Cases